Attachment-based Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Flora Pagan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Flora Pagan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My work is grounded in somatic, attachment-based, and social justice approaches and much of my training and experience has focused on relational trauma.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
My work is grounded in somatic, attachment-based, and social justice approaches and much of my training and experience has focused on relational trauma.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
(431) 304-6966 View (431) 304-6966
Photo of Rachel Dee Athey, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Rachel Dee Athey
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
Waitlist for new clients
I approach counselling from a relational, person-centered, trauma-informed lens. I most often engage in long-term therapeutic relationships with my clients or support folks looking for short-term help in processing difficult experiences and trauma. I tailor sessions and my approach based on client's needs and prioritize their sense of safety at all times. My approach utilizes techniques and theory from Trauma Focused and Attachment-based Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Positive Psychology.
I approach counselling from a relational, person-centered, trauma-informed lens. I most often engage in long-term therapeutic relationships with my clients or support folks looking for short-term help in processing difficult experiences and trauma. I tailor sessions and my approach based on client's needs and prioritize their sense of safety at all times. My approach utilizes techniques and theory from Trauma Focused and Attachment-based Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Positive Psychology.
View
Photo of Danièle Riendeau, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Danièle Riendeau
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
The counselling modalities worked with include Internal Family Systems, Somatic Mindfulness and Attachment-based therapy, from a Polyvagal informed lens.
Welcome, Bonjour. I’m Danièle (elle/she/her). I am passionate about mindfulness, the nervous system and learning to access our inner resources when faced with uncertainty and life's many challenges. In turning towards their felt experiences, I've witnesses clients learn to trust their bodies and themselves, making them more open and available in relationships and in life. My areas of focus include anxiety and trauma healing, perinatal mental health and life transitions.
The counselling modalities worked with include Internal Family Systems, Somatic Mindfulness and Attachment-based therapy, from a Polyvagal informed lens.
Welcome, Bonjour. I’m Danièle (elle/she/her). I am passionate about mindfulness, the nervous system and learning to access our inner resources when faced with uncertainty and life's many challenges. In turning towards their felt experiences, I've witnesses clients learn to trust their bodies and themselves, making them more open and available in relationships and in life. My areas of focus include anxiety and trauma healing, perinatal mental health and life transitions.
(581) 221-5668 View (581) 221-5668
Photo of Inka Hart, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Inka Hart
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Be the parent you want to be! Process past trauma to allow you to parent in the way that feels right for you, learn attachment-based strategies to support your child when they are struggling in childhood and into the teen years, and get support with birth trauma and/or postpartum anxiety and depression.
From tiny to tall, I can help support them all - infants, children, teens and parents! My support for young children includes attachment-based strategies and I offer customized trauma-informed parent support for new and experienced caregivers. Find more information here: tinyurl.com/7xbryy When working with children, I utilize attachment-based support that includes various expressive techniques including art, games, and play. I am also able to support youth who are struggling with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, OCD, and borderline traits. I also offer EMDR for children, youth and adults.
Be the parent you want to be! Process past trauma to allow you to parent in the way that feels right for you, learn attachment-based strategies to support your child when they are struggling in childhood and into the teen years, and get support with birth trauma and/or postpartum anxiety and depression.
From tiny to tall, I can help support them all - infants, children, teens and parents! My support for young children includes attachment-based strategies and I offer customized trauma-informed parent support for new and experienced caregivers. Find more information here: tinyurl.com/7xbryy When working with children, I utilize attachment-based support that includes various expressive techniques including art, games, and play. I am also able to support youth who are struggling with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, OCD, and borderline traits. I also offer EMDR for children, youth and adults.
(902) 813-9683 View (902) 813-9683
Photo of Lucia Simoncicova, MA, RCC, RCAT, Counsellor
Lucia Simoncicova
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
Therapeutic modalities: Attachment-based therapies, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy and other Family Systems approaches, Art and Play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, Grief Recovery Method, Interpersonal therapy, Trauma-Informed Approach, and Polyvagal Theory in Therapy.
Lucia Simoncicova, MA, is a Clinical Counsellor registered with BCACC. She is a Registered Art Therapist with CATA. Lucia has offered counselling in community mental health centres and in her private practice. She is passionate about working with adults, caregivers, children and teenagers. She offers treatment for a variety of concerns including emotional regulation, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, learning issues, trauma, and relationship issues. Lucia’s specialty is working with highly sensitive persons of any age. She enjoys offering support to carers via parental consultations.
Therapeutic modalities: Attachment-based therapies, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy and other Family Systems approaches, Art and Play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, Grief Recovery Method, Interpersonal therapy, Trauma-Informed Approach, and Polyvagal Theory in Therapy.
Lucia Simoncicova, MA, is a Clinical Counsellor registered with BCACC. She is a Registered Art Therapist with CATA. Lucia has offered counselling in community mental health centres and in her private practice. She is passionate about working with adults, caregivers, children and teenagers. She offers treatment for a variety of concerns including emotional regulation, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, learning issues, trauma, and relationship issues. Lucia’s specialty is working with highly sensitive persons of any age. She enjoys offering support to carers via parental consultations.
(778) 763-1353 View (778) 763-1353
Photo of Carli Kirby, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Carli Kirby
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
I work with folks who are experiencing post-traumatic stress responses, anxiety, depression, the effects of abuse and early attachment wounds. Through a relational, attachment-based somatic approach to counselling, I can help clients develop a stronger sense of self, increase their capacity to tolerate emotions, learn to self-regulate the nervous system, repair relational injuries, get "unstuck", and heal from the effects of trauma in an embodied way.
I work with folks who are experiencing post-traumatic stress responses, anxiety, depression, the effects of abuse and early attachment wounds. Through a relational, attachment-based somatic approach to counselling, I can help clients develop a stronger sense of self, increase their capacity to tolerate emotions, learn to self-regulate the nervous system, repair relational injuries, get "unstuck", and heal from the effects of trauma in an embodied way.
(778) 764-1579 View (778) 764-1579
Photo of Zachary Bruyere, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Zachary Bruyere
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8T
Drawing from a diverse toolkit that includes Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based techniques, mindfulness practices, and a trauma-informed lens, I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am dedicated to offering a safe and nurturing space for individuals, aged 16 and above, to explore their experiences and rediscover inner peace, joy, love, and safety. Join me in a collaborative partnership towards healing and growth, where together, we can navigate challenges with empathy, insight, and unwavering support. I have experience in supporting individuals navigating Acute and Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Shame, and Male Masculinity Expectations.
Drawing from a diverse toolkit that includes Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based techniques, mindfulness practices, and a trauma-informed lens, I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am dedicated to offering a safe and nurturing space for individuals, aged 16 and above, to explore their experiences and rediscover inner peace, joy, love, and safety. Join me in a collaborative partnership towards healing and growth, where together, we can navigate challenges with empathy, insight, and unwavering support. I have experience in supporting individuals navigating Acute and Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Shame, and Male Masculinity Expectations.
(250) 389-2819 View (250) 389-2819
Photo of Riley McDonald, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Riley McDonald
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My aim is to provide a trusting, nonjudgmental space in which you feel comfortable sharing your story. While there is innate wisdom within all of us, our ability to see the way forward can become clouded when we become overwhelmed. A deep exploration of one’s internal experience can be freeing, and provide valuable insight into (often unconscious) patterns of relating to the self and others. We will work collaboratively from an attachment-based, client-centred orientation. Drawing connections between your past experiences and your present situation will help us identify how best to meet your future goals.
My aim is to provide a trusting, nonjudgmental space in which you feel comfortable sharing your story. While there is innate wisdom within all of us, our ability to see the way forward can become clouded when we become overwhelmed. A deep exploration of one’s internal experience can be freeing, and provide valuable insight into (often unconscious) patterns of relating to the self and others. We will work collaboratively from an attachment-based, client-centred orientation. Drawing connections between your past experiences and your present situation will help us identify how best to meet your future goals.
(450) 328-5874 View (450) 328-5874
Photo of Britta Zeimer, BSc, LLM eq, RTC, Counsellor
Britta Zeimer
Counsellor, BSc, LLM eq, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
Using attachment-based techniques and guided meditations, we’ll work on healing and building better connections.
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges - like a stressful relationship, self-doubts, anxiety, or loneliness? In my sessions you'll find a safe, compassionate space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of your emotions, identify patterns holding you back, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. Whether you’re seeking to improve relationships, dealing with life transitions, or finding ways to manage overwhelming stress, let’s talk and find ways for you to grow and find fulfillment. You’re not alone on this journey, and together, we can make your life better step by step.
Using attachment-based techniques and guided meditations, we’ll work on healing and building better connections.
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges - like a stressful relationship, self-doubts, anxiety, or loneliness? In my sessions you'll find a safe, compassionate space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of your emotions, identify patterns holding you back, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. Whether you’re seeking to improve relationships, dealing with life transitions, or finding ways to manage overwhelming stress, let’s talk and find ways for you to grow and find fulfillment. You’re not alone on this journey, and together, we can make your life better step by step.
(343) 321-6367 View (343) 321-6367
Photo of Maggie Grant, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Maggie Grant
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
In my work as a Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor, I work to create a space that is thoughtful, warm and connected. Together we’ll dig deep to explore underlying thoughts, feelings and behaviours to better learn what’s going on, where you might be getting stuck and pathways to move forward. I aim to help you live with a greater sense of authenticity, ease and meaning. I bring a relational, trauma-informed and attachment-based lens to my work.
In my work as a Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor, I work to create a space that is thoughtful, warm and connected. Together we’ll dig deep to explore underlying thoughts, feelings and behaviours to better learn what’s going on, where you might be getting stuck and pathways to move forward. I aim to help you live with a greater sense of authenticity, ease and meaning. I bring a relational, trauma-informed and attachment-based lens to my work.
(647) 697-5209 View (647) 697-5209
Photo of Jessica McMahon, MCP, RCC, CT, Counsellor
Jessica McMahon
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CT
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
I believe that everybody & every body has a story. With this belief in mind, I'll work with you using a trauma-informed, integrative approach that focuses on relational, attachment-based somatic therapy as well as person-centered, narrative and emotionally focused therapy. I work with clients experiencing: Depression/anxiety, Chronic stress/burnout, Trauma, Birth and Reproductive trauma, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Grief/loss.
I believe that everybody & every body has a story. With this belief in mind, I'll work with you using a trauma-informed, integrative approach that focuses on relational, attachment-based somatic therapy as well as person-centered, narrative and emotionally focused therapy. I work with clients experiencing: Depression/anxiety, Chronic stress/burnout, Trauma, Birth and Reproductive trauma, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Grief/loss.
(604) 330-1227 View (604) 330-1227
Photo of Virlyn Collantes, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Virlyn Collantes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R  (Online Only)
In individual counselling, I use a combination of modalities from CBT, DBT, SFBT, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Attachment-based style.
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship / Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, and Emotional Regulation. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
In individual counselling, I use a combination of modalities from CBT, DBT, SFBT, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Attachment-based style.
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship / Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, and Emotional Regulation. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
(587) 804-0680 View (587) 804-0680
Photo of Vanya Laporte, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Vanya Laporte
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9E
I am committed to honouring the unique qualities of each individual and helping them explore their innate resources for well-being. Whether you are healing from a trauma, anxious about this stage in your life, or adapting to a changing world, we can work together to help you cultivate a more meaningful life and develop skills to navigate challenges. As both the Director and RCC at Thriving Roots Counselling Services, I support youth, couples, and families on their healing journeys, many who have been rediscovering their own gifts and resilience with my support.
I am committed to honouring the unique qualities of each individual and helping them explore their innate resources for well-being. Whether you are healing from a trauma, anxious about this stage in your life, or adapting to a changing world, we can work together to help you cultivate a more meaningful life and develop skills to navigate challenges. As both the Director and RCC at Thriving Roots Counselling Services, I support youth, couples, and families on their healing journeys, many who have been rediscovering their own gifts and resilience with my support.
(226) 400-2001 View (226) 400-2001
Photo of Tymarah Cholewa, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Tymarah Cholewa
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
I know it can feel like an overwhelming process to find the right counsellor, so thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I also know that when we do find the right fit, counselling can help us gain insight and perspective, and achieve positive personal growth. The relationship between the client and therapist creates the foundation for change, so I strive to build trust, rapport, and mutual respect with my clients. The way you and I interact together will be the practice ground for the skills that will help to improve your own personal relationships - the most important being your relationship with yourself.
I know it can feel like an overwhelming process to find the right counsellor, so thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I also know that when we do find the right fit, counselling can help us gain insight and perspective, and achieve positive personal growth. The relationship between the client and therapist creates the foundation for change, so I strive to build trust, rapport, and mutual respect with my clients. The way you and I interact together will be the practice ground for the skills that will help to improve your own personal relationships - the most important being your relationship with yourself.
(604) 210-3503 View (604) 210-3503
Photo of Shaelynn Mellors, MA, CCLS, Counsellor
Shaelynn Mellors
Counsellor, MA, CCLS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Founder and Registered Clinical Counsellor of Pediatric Power Play. The clients I serve are typically between the ages of 3 and 19. However, I work from a family systems lens, which operates on creating consistency and allowing my clients to include their parents or have separate therapeutic relationships with them. The needs and goals of each client vary between building confidence, emotional regulation, coping strategies, relationships, and so much more. One thing in common for all my clients is allowing them space to explore and navigate to find their identity and support them in accomplishing any change.
Founder and Registered Clinical Counsellor of Pediatric Power Play. The clients I serve are typically between the ages of 3 and 19. However, I work from a family systems lens, which operates on creating consistency and allowing my clients to include their parents or have separate therapeutic relationships with them. The needs and goals of each client vary between building confidence, emotional regulation, coping strategies, relationships, and so much more. One thing in common for all my clients is allowing them space to explore and navigate to find their identity and support them in accomplishing any change.
(236) 201-5454 View (236) 201-5454
Photo of Venetta Elizabeth Henry, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Venetta Elizabeth Henry
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Accepting New Clients- Trauma informed, compassionate and mindful counselling for trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. Is the cycle of depression or trauma leaving you feeling hopeless and lost? Is your anxiety limiting your life and causing you to suffer? I offer help and support for these issues and much more. With the use of many treatment approach options, my practice is effective, holistic, warm and collaborative. It takes courage to break free from this cycle and to ask for help. Together we can work towards improving your life in endless ways, resulting in a more meaningful, peaceful, and fulfilling life!
Accepting New Clients- Trauma informed, compassionate and mindful counselling for trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. Is the cycle of depression or trauma leaving you feeling hopeless and lost? Is your anxiety limiting your life and causing you to suffer? I offer help and support for these issues and much more. With the use of many treatment approach options, my practice is effective, holistic, warm and collaborative. It takes courage to break free from this cycle and to ask for help. Together we can work towards improving your life in endless ways, resulting in a more meaningful, peaceful, and fulfilling life!
(778) 770-1258 View (778) 770-1258
Photo of Beverley Wilson, OT, RCC, DCP, Counsellor
Beverley Wilson
Counsellor, OT, RCC, DCP
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9B
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about an holistic view of rehabilitation, healing one’s self, both inside and out. Through the use of various modalities, I assist clients in gaining healthy perspectives in order to strengthen bonds and recover both physically and emotionally. It's my goal to help people feel safe, appreciated and whole again. I bring a unique blend of experience and expertise, being both a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Occupational Therapist. I hold a Bachelor of Science in OT and a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology, I am also a Doctor of Counseling and Psychotherapy.
I am passionate about an holistic view of rehabilitation, healing one’s self, both inside and out. Through the use of various modalities, I assist clients in gaining healthy perspectives in order to strengthen bonds and recover both physically and emotionally. It's my goal to help people feel safe, appreciated and whole again. I bring a unique blend of experience and expertise, being both a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Occupational Therapist. I hold a Bachelor of Science in OT and a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology, I am also a Doctor of Counseling and Psychotherapy.
(289) 312-1478 View (289) 312-1478
Photo of Jim Kragtwyk, M Ed, RCC, ICADC, Counsellor
Jim Kragtwyk
Counsellor, M Ed, RCC, ICADC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
With over 38 years of experience as a counsellor and psychotherapist, I can support your journey to healing and wellness in a sensitive, attuned and skillful manner. Creating a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to deal with life's challenges so you can become more free as a human being and become your most authentic self. Helping you create the life you want, the relationships you want and achieving the goals that inspire you is where I can serve you best. Experienced, quaified and competent.
With over 38 years of experience as a counsellor and psychotherapist, I can support your journey to healing and wellness in a sensitive, attuned and skillful manner. Creating a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to deal with life's challenges so you can become more free as a human being and become your most authentic self. Helping you create the life you want, the relationships you want and achieving the goals that inspire you is where I can serve you best. Experienced, quaified and competent.
(778) 784-4850 View (778) 784-4850
Photo of Kaitlin McManus, LPAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Kaitlin McManus
Registered Psychotherapist, LPAT
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8Z
I work with clients experiencing mental or emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, or other challenging emotions or life situations. I strive to bring clients into a place of healing connection with self, relationships, and life as it arises. It is my goal to teach clients evidenced-based and trauma-informed techniques required to move past trauma, and confidently heal from challenging life situations, and difficult emotions, to reach a place of greater autonomy, self-understanding, well-being, and ease in life.
I work with clients experiencing mental or emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, or other challenging emotions or life situations. I strive to bring clients into a place of healing connection with self, relationships, and life as it arises. It is my goal to teach clients evidenced-based and trauma-informed techniques required to move past trauma, and confidently heal from challenging life situations, and difficult emotions, to reach a place of greater autonomy, self-understanding, well-being, and ease in life.
(647) 692-1223 View (647) 692-1223
Photo of Brandi Allen, RCC, MC, BEd/BA, Counsellor
Brandi Allen
Counsellor, RCC, MC, BEd/BA
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families. I offer counselling for parents who are struggling with their parenting role. I also specialize in helping families and couples that are going through restructuring due to illness, death, separation and/or divorce. I am collaborative and strengths-based in my approach. I meet the client where the client is and work from there in a non-pathologizing way.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families. I offer counselling for parents who are struggling with their parenting role. I also specialize in helping families and couples that are going through restructuring due to illness, death, separation and/or divorce. I am collaborative and strengths-based in my approach. I meet the client where the client is and work from there in a non-pathologizing way.
(867) 988-1603 View (867) 988-1603
1
...

See more therapy options for Victoria

Attachment-based Counsellors

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.